Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the presidential ambition of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, describing it as one that would not succeed.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday while speaking with journalists during an inspection of ongoing road projects in the Gomani-Yangoje area of Kwali Area Council in Abuja.
Makinde had earlier declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement.
His declaration followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between his faction within the Peoples Democratic Party and the APM in Ibadan.
Reacting to the development, Wike alleged that Makinde’s political alignment was part of a long-standing strategy to actualise his presidential ambition.
“What you have is Seyi Makinde joining APM to be able to actualise his presidential ambition, which is already dead on arrival.”
The FCT minister insisted that Makinde could not emerge as the presidential candidate of the PDP.
“It’s unfortunate. We know that has been his game plan and we would say he cannot fly the flag of PDP,” Wike said.
Wike also addressed questions regarding the political status of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his continued membership of the All Progressives Congress.
He questioned the public concern surrounding the issue, noting that Fubara had repeatedly affirmed his membership of the party.
“Sorry for what? Why are you saying problem when nobody has told you he has a problem? The man has told you he still remains APC. So what is the problem now?” he asked.
According to Wike, any issue concerning Fubara’s standing within the APC should be treated strictly as an internal party matter.
“Ask me about PDP, and I will answer you. Because how will you ask me whatever happens? Assuming he has a problem, it’s their internal affairs.”
His comments come amid heightened political tensions and speculation over shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governor Fubara had earlier dismissed social media reports suggesting he had defected from the APC.
The Rivers governor made the clarification during an inspection of the reconstructed Rivers State Psychiatric Hospital in Rumuigbo, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where he reaffirmed his loyalty to the ruling party.
What You Should Know
Wike’s comments highlight the growing political realignments and rivalries shaping Nigeria’s opposition landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Governor Seyi Makinde’s presidential declaration under the APM signals fresh ambition beyond Oyo State, while Wike’s dismissal reflects deep divisions within opposition politics.
The remarks also underscore the lingering political tensions in Rivers State involving Governor Fubara and the broader battle for influence ahead of the next electoral cycle.
